inferior conjunction

noun

: a conjunction of an inferior planet with the sun in which the planet is aligned between the earth and the sun

Examples of inferior conjunction in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Whenever a planet sits directly between the sun and Earth, this is referred to as an inferior conjunction. Samuel Sanders, Smithsonian Magazine, 13 Sep. 2024 Venus will then quickly sink back into the Sun’s glare, crossing the near-side of the Sun—something called inferior conjunction by stargazers—on August 13, 2023. Jamie Carter, Forbes, 4 May 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'inferior conjunction.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of inferior conjunction was in 1833

Dictionary Entries Near inferior conjunction

Cite this Entry

“Inferior conjunction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inferior%20conjunction. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on inferior conjunction

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